To ask the Secretary of State for International Development when he expects to make a final decision on the construction of an airport on St. Helena; and if he will make a statement. (260285)

We are reviewing whether it is right to proceed with this project in the present difficult economic climate. We will announce the outcome of our considerations just as soon as we are able to.

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what research his Department has undertaken into the (a) economic, (b) financial and (c) social consequences for St. Helena of a decision not to proceed with the construction of an airport on St. Helena; and what the nugatory costs to the public purse of such a decision would be. (260333)

The 2005 Feasibility Study, which is in the public domain, examined the economic, financial and social consequences of both sea and air access.

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what private sector financial assistance has been offered to his Department to help fund the construction of an airport on St. Helena; and if he will make a statement. (260332)

The St. Helena Leisure Corporation Ltd. (SHELCO) has written to the Department with ideas for private sector participation. I met representatives on 2 March for a discussion to clarify its proposition.